Add the look of leather this spring

Aly Walansky is a freelance writer and editor based in New York City. She lives with her two Shorkie-Tzus, Scarlette and Max, and a display of pink polka-dot-themed home decor -- not to mention a selection of flavored vodka. Check out he...

Warm weather edge

Leather is not just reserved for footwear this spring — live on the edge and pair your basic dress with leather panels, fringe and accessories. Rock it perforated in a trench or in a slim pair of pearlized pastel pants. Stop living by the rules and have fun!

We all love rocking our favorite leather looks in winter — that first late fall leather jacket and those leather boots as it gets colder. But can it be worn into the warmer weather as well?

"Leather needs to illustrate your luxury value in your style in a refined and quiet way," says Seattle-based stylist Andrea Ward. "It should mesh with the clothes and just offer dimension that will inspire the chewy side of your clothes. Especially with the cashmeres and silks, it has to give something to bite into — it is the meat of your ensemble. It should offer your protein."

A little edge (with a little something nice)

A leather jacket looks smashing over a girlie dress, and a ruffled shirt can look darling over leather leggings, or even try pairing your basic black work dress with studded ankle booties.

Or go out on a limb — a sexy limb, that is — and wear leather shorts — whether you are into high waists or super short length. But remember those tights! This is a hot option for spring!

If you aren't quite a shorts girl, break out your inner Kelly Bundy and get a great leather skirt. That girl used to wear leather skirts year-round, and remember all the attention she got? And accessories can make modest into modern: This leather collar is the perfect way to add a little edge to any outfit.

Don't be afraid of color

Black and brown leather is great, but there are lots of other shades out there to enjoy! Consider a sexy mini or cropped jacket in yellow or pink — and just wait to get noticed!